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3MP's John Burgess and 3SR's Greg Evans have both spoken out over the lack of quiz shows on television in this day and age. They were joined by TV and radio personality Mike Goldman and Miss Universe Australia 2008 Laura Dundovic for the launch of a new Playstation trivia game in Sydney today. All played the game, with former Perfect Match host Evans taking it out. Full story

April Fool fun has come and gone for another year and across the nation all sorts of pranks took place. Our own prank for 2009 fielded an email from New Zealand requesting an interview even before dawn had broken.

GRUBBY & DEE DEE were caught in the middle of an April Fools Prank, with a number of cars parked in GOLD 104's Richmond street wrapped up in Glad Wrap overnight. There were some strange notes left on them too. Click here for more pics

Sea FM caught thousands of Gold Coasters off guard this morning, broadcasting that motorists would be slugged with a $2.50 toll from April 1 for using the Tugun bypass. It was a well-played April Fools' Day prank, with fellow conspirators including Queensland Premier Anna Bligh and Gold Coast Mayor Ron Clarke. More

Adelaide's Triple M breakfast team Kym, Ali & Dzelde had a scandal on their hands of large proportions. Ali's former boyfriend had attempted to sell nude photos of her however the team were set to reveal all. View pics here and listen to the audio here

At Vega 95.3 breakfast, Mikey and Tony set up Dragon's Todd Hunter to ring in and request Rebecca to sing back up vocals this Saturday night when Dragon perform live. Well the prank back fired on the boys Listen to the audio grab here

3NE's newsreader Tony Tynan told listeners that the border of Victoria and New South Wales was to be realigned to the Murrumbidgee River from the Murray after the original plans were discovered.

Melbourne's Student Youth Network radio station SYN FM announced on their website this morning that they were to rename their station ``Female Youth Network'', or FYN FM, in a hope to gain additional funding.

Three Australian talk radio stations will shortly start trials for DIGITALK radio. 2GB, 3AW and Fiveaa will allow listeners to interact and join in live to air whenever the listener feels like it. If a listener feels they know better or they don't agree with the announcer they can add their point of view. Put simply for those who are passionate about their talk radio there will be no more need to jump on the phone and wait on hold.

DIGITALK was launched last month in Mexico and was an instant hit. Initial fears of masses of people talking over the announcer were soon forgotten as listeners forged their own conversations on the 3,000 channel digital sets.

A high rating station may have up to 8 versions of breakfast going at once as listeners can be bumped from the main program and fed through to the stations other channels. Such was the case in Mexico where morning talk presenter Pablo Cruze quickly adapted with listeners talking over him at random, Cruze will be in Australia during the trials.

To join in the DIGITALK trials listeners will need to purchase a GABFD 3000 channel digital radio and a german made OLFO RIPAL headset. Wearing the headset within 6 metres of the digital radio will allow you to instantly become part of the program by adding your point of view live to air. This will allow you to jump right into the conversation.

Friends of the ABC welcomes the appointment of Julianne Schultz and Michael Lynch.

"It's an extremely welcome change to have people with strong backgrounds in local culture and a commitment to public broadcasting appointed to the ABC Board," said Glenys Stradijot, a spokesperson for Friends of the ABC (Vic).

"Though Friends of the ABC support will remain qualified until we know more about the type of ABC the new appointees will work towards.

"FABC encourages the new board members to become more open than the existing board - to inform and engage with the community about the ABC they envisage.

"Matters that go to the nature of the ABC that Friends is keen to learn their views on, include:

- The significance of the public broadcaster as a producer of local content. The ABC now produces no television drama of its own, depending entirely on external production. Specialist program units, like the ABC's Natural History Unit, have been closed.

- The ABC's increasing engagement in commercial activities which result in advertising on the ABC, risk impacting on programming integrity and may undermine the universality of the ABC by introducing charges for services that should be free.

“The process for these appointments has been a positive start for the Rudd Labor Government with regard to the ABC.

“FABC looks forward to the Government implementing its promise to restore the staff-elected director position to the ABC Board and enshrine in legislation a system that requires all governments to appoint ABC Board members on the basis of merit and independence,” said Glenys Stradijot.

The Australian reports of major happenings around Macquarie GroupThe Macquarie Group's boom-market business model began to unwind yesterday when its listed communications fund recommended a $1.37 billion takeover offer on fears its looming debt deadlines would not be met.

The potential sale of the Macquarie Communications Infrastructure Group (MCG) to the Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board represents the first of the Macquarie satellite funds to break away as the global financial crisis forces the group to reposition its business. Read the entire article

ABC891 have knocked Fiveaa into equal 2nd place with SAFM while in Melbourne the big upset of the survey sees 3AW fall into 2nd spot after ABC774 went to number one. FOX comes in at number 3 in Melbourne, Vega 91.5 continues to struggle however it is a different story for for Vega 95.3 in Sydney with a small gain towards a 4.7 share. 2MMM has parked itself in struggle street. Clear winner in the Sydney market was 2GB. Brisbane's top three remained the same Nova, B105 and ABC612. Perth results show Mix94.5 number 1, sister station 92.9 number 2 and back up amongst them, 96fm in at number 3.

Nova's James Mathison has quit as co-host of Australian Idol Network Ten says it's confident Andrew G can host Australian Idol on his own after co-host James Mathison quit.

Mathison, 31, hinted he was sick of the lifestyle as he revealed he'd leave the singing competition he's hosted since its first series in 2003. Network Ten said it was sad to see him go, but Andrew G was up to the task of carrying the hosting job alone.

Nova 969 said Mathison had no plans to give up his job hosting late night music program Launchpad Up Late with Patience Hodgson from The Grates.

"James is having a ball on Nova, and we're happy to give him the opportunity," Nova 969 program director Adam Williscroft said.

CRA release: Commercial Radio Australia and The Nielsen Company today announced that quota sampling of the P10 – 17 and P18 – 24 age groups would be tested from April 2009 (Wave 3) as part of the fine tuning of the implementation of the new enhanced survey methodology in metropolitan areas.

This action is being taken following concerns expressed by the industry about the sample sizes and the demographic profile of the total sample in Survey 1 and Survey 2 with particular reference to the age groups of 10-17 and 18-24 years.

In order to address this issue, CRA and Nielsen agreed that quota sampling for the P10-17 and P18-24 age groups would be tested in all markets for Survey 3 and 4 to deal with the under sampling that occurred in the first two surveys.

Peter Cornelius, Managing Director, Media of Nielsen said, “Quota sampling during recruitment will significantly improve the number of under 25 people participating in the radio surveys which will result in higher sample sizes in these demographics. This issue needs to be addressed to ensure a more representative sample in all markets and in all surveys”.

This week at the Southport Yacht Club, Radio Station Sea FM celebrated 20 years almost to the minute of broadcasting. With the Beatles hit tune beginning 'It was 20 years ago today' blaring in the background as the theme for the night, it was on with the party. Read the entire article

Easymix 1071am Central Victoria and sister station 1467am Mildura have recently launched their own distinct websites. Easymix is part of the Grant Broadcasters radio network and both stations have come a long way since Grant's took ownership a few years ago. Check out the sites here 1071am Central Victoria1467am Mildura

Archival video of John Vincent AKA Ken Noath just fooling around on Sounds Unlimited in 1979

John Vincent passed away in his sleep this morning with his family by his side. Concerns for his health were raised when he was admitted to Royal Adelaide Hospital late last week. John was 67.

Tributes are flowing in across the industry such as the following from 5MMM's website 'Today we mourn the passing of John Vincent who died after a long illness. John was at the forefront of the FM radio revolution in the 1980s and became a household name on Adelaide radio.

He was the 'ring master' leading a group of personalities in The SA-FM Morning Zoo which had the highest breakfast ratings achieved to date - 36.6% in 1989.

ABC: The ABC has appointed the head of its Asia Pacific News service, Kate Torney, as the new director of the news division.

Ms Torney is the first woman to take on the role.

ABC managing director Mark Scott has also announced that Kate Dundas has been appointed the new director of radio.

Ms Torney takes over the director of news position from John Cameron and Ms Dundas slots into the position vacated by Sue Howard; Ms Dundas has been acting in the position in recent months.

Mr Scott says both have extensive experience in news and radio and a deep understanding of the ABC and will make them great contributions to the ABC leadership team.

"Kate Torney's experience managing the largest cross-platform international newsroom in the Asia Pacific region, responsible for over 60 journalists, together with her strong background in current affairs as the executive producer of Insiders and Offsiders, made her the ideal candidate to extend the opportunities offered by digital media into our ABC newsrooms," Mr Scott said.

Ms Torney says it is a great honour to be taking up the role.

"This is a time of change and opportunity for ABC News and it is also a time to focus on what sets us apart from our competitors. A commitment to journalistic excellence and independent reporting and analysis of local, national and international news must remain our priority as we explore new ways to deliver our content," she said.

She praised John Cameron for his efforts and says she is proud to be following in his footsteps.

"I look forward to continuing to work closely with the news executive team of John Turner, Craig McMurtrie, Alan Sunderland, Zahed Cachalia, Steven Alward and Lou Lander."

Mr Scott says Ms Dundas is an ideal choice for director of radio.

"She brings a depth of experience in the area of strategic reform and a solid knowledge of content creation and editorial policies in her previous role working with the ABC's national radio networks, making her an outstanding candidate for this position.

"The ABC is currently in a strong position and we want to maintain that leadership in digital media, capitalising on our strengths in the key content areas of news and radio - the work of the directors of news and radio will be integral in this endeavour."

Ms Torney will begin her role as the director of news on April 14 and Ms Dundas will begin her role as director of radio immediately.

This year’s Gold Siren Winner, equivalent to the best radio ad in Australia, will be announced in Sydney on May 8, at Waters Edge, Walsh Bay. The winner of the 2009 Siren Awards for creative excellence in radio advertising will be announced at a breakfast, hosted by Jonathan ‘Jono’ Coleman and Ian ‘Dano’ Rogerson, from the drivetime show, “The Jono & Dano Show", on-air on WS-FM (Sydney), GOLD 104 (Melbourne) and 4KQ (Brisbane), as well as many regional stations across Australia.

The breakfast will feature the best radio ads of the past twelve months. The 2009 winner, chosen by a panel of industry experts, will be automatically entered into the Cannes Radio Lions – to be held in June and its writer will also win two tickets to attend the festival.

Last year’s Gold Siren winner, an advertisement for RACV Financial Services called “Disclaimer”, written by Paul Reardon and Julian Schreiber from Clemenger BBDO in Melbourne, won a Silver Radio Lion at the Cannes Advertising Festival. The RACV ad was one of three 2008 Sirens finalists and winners that made it to the radio shortlist in Cannes last year. Paul Reardon from Clemenger BBDO is this year’s Australian radio judge at Cannes.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner said the Siren Awards provided a great opportunity to recognise excellence in Australian radio advertising and also highlight the great work being achieved, both at home and overseas: “Each year the Siren Awards continue to raise the bar in terms of creativity and originality. There have been nearly 600 entries this year – a fantastic result which shows how important this Award has become. Also the success of past winners and entrants at Cannes is testament to the fact that great work is being achieved with radio ads in Australia,” Ms Warner said.

The breakfast will be followed by the Sirens Masterclass, a one-day, creative seminar that provides keynote speakers and interactive sessions. The Masterclass includes lunch and group tasks which will allow people to share ideas and network. Guest speakers for this year’s event will be announced soon.

Both the Sirens breakfast and Masterclass will be held at Waters Edge, Sydney. The breakfast will run from 7.30am to 9.30am and the Masterclass will follow the breakfast and includes lunch. Tickets are on sale now at $395 for the breakfast and Masterclass combined and an early bird discounted rate of $350 is available for those who book and pay before Friday, April 10. Tickets for the breakfast only are $65 and a table of ten is available for $595. For a booking form and more information visit the Sirens website, www.sirenawards.com.au.

The national Siren Awards, now in their sixth year, are run by Commercial Radio Australia and are designed to recognise the best radio advertising in the country. The awards promote the importance of creativity as a way to make radio advertising more effective. Entries for round one of the 2010 Siren Awards are now open.

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ACMA RELEASE: The Australian Communications and Media Authority invites public comment on a proposed change of community interest for community broadcaster Hobart FM Inc., the licensee of 7THE.

7THE has advised ACMA that it has identified changes in the needs and interests of the community it serves and considers that it would best serve the general community of Hobart RA2 rather than the educational community.

ACMA is currently considering 7THE’s application to change its community of interest.

Community broadcasting licensees are subject to a licence condition that the licensee will continue to represent the community interest that it represented at the time when the licence was allocated or was last renewed. Community broadcasting licensees can apply to change their community interest at the time they submit their licence renewal application.

7THE’s licence renewal application and request for a change of community interest are available from ACMA’s website.

Margaret Spalding, CEO of disability service provider Koomarri, has died.Margaret Spalding had last week begun a civil hearing against Canberra's 2CC over remarks made by the breakfast presenter about her role in the sale of the Narrabundah Long Stay Caravan Park in 2006.

Joy 94.9’s musical director Damian Nicholas has resigned from the station. Nicholas who has also been a long time host of the drive program will now concentrate on voice-overs both for radio and television.

Regional commercial radio broadcasters from around Australia met in Sydney today and agreed unanimously that digital radio services must be made available to all Australians, not just those in metropolitan areas.

The broadcasters called on the Federal Government to make an immediate public commitment to the allocation of VHF Band III spectrum to regional broadcasters for the rollout of digital radio services across Australia.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia (CRA), Joan Warner said, “The broadcasters agreed that the provision of digital radio services across the whole of Australia is key to the principle of social inclusion for all Australians. A vital element in ensuring the planning and provision of digital radio services in a timely manner is an assurance from Government of access to spectrum. “

“Regional broadcasters believe there is no impediment to the Government immediately making a strong policy commitment to regional commercial radio operators and their listeners that appropriate spectrum will be allocated in the future to regional broadcasters for digital radio services,” she said

Discussion at the meeting focused on spectrum needs and policy essentials, plus planning, timing and funding proposals for further development and presentation to the Federal Government that will ensure equity of access for all Australians to new and improved radio services via digital radio.

Regional broadcasters also discussed digital radio trials with, ideally, trials to begin in September 2009 following the digital radio switch on in the mainland capitals.

Expressions of interest in a regional DAB+ trial have been made to CRA by a large number of commercial radio broadcasters including Bathurst Broadcasters, Macquarie Southern Cross Broadcasters, Prime Radio, Hot Tomato, Supernetwork, Flow FM, Coastal Broadcasters, Austereo/ARN (Canberra FM), West Coast Radio Pty Ltd, North East Broadcaster Ltd Rich Rivers Radio and Tab Corp – 2KY.

Commercial Radio Australia has already had advice from ACMA on where suitable spectrum is available for a trial. Current areas of investigation are Hobart, Townsville and Canberra. Broadcasters also discussed the possibility of a trial in a smaller regional area.

“An announcement of future spectrum priority plus facilitation of a regional DAB+ trial will provide regional broadcasters and regional listeners, plus the automotive and retail sectors, with confidence that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the radio industry, is committed to making digital radio available throughout Australia,” said Ms Warner

THE launch of “rock music” radio station Zinc's brand yesterday, and the shift of 4MKFM onto the AM band with a news and talkback format will mark Prime Radio's biggest attack on the Macquarie-owned Hot FM and Sea FM.Zinc will take over the 101.9FM spot that was long-held by 4MKFM. Read the entire article

"A trading halt is necessary as Prime expects to make an announcement in relation to capital management initiatives," the company said in a statement on Monday.

Prime requested that the trading halt continue until the opening of trade on Friday, unless it requests the halt be lifted before that time.

The Canberra-based company, which commenced as a free-to-air television broadcaster before diversifying into radio and digital media, sources its revenues from advertising and the production of commercial ads.

THE laughs keep coming for Triple J radio show host Alex Dyson who is set to make a splash at this year's Melbourne International Comedy Festival.n Dyson, 20, is juggling his final year of university, his weekend breakfast radio show with fellow Warrnambool comedian Tom Ballard and preparing for the comedy festival. Read the entire article

Radio companies say they are beating the worst of the advertising downturn as they prepare to launch digital services.Cathy O'Connor, chief executive of DMG Radio, said while advertising growth fell 2.06 per cent in February, it wasn't likely to deteriorate much further over the next six to 12 months. read the entire article

They were in training for months and yesterday they all came together to find out who was South Australia's mightiest Mascot.The Triple M Kym, Ali & Dzelde Mascot Race was all in a good cause for The Queen Elizabeth Research Foundation. Premier Mike Rann was there to count the Mascot's down to the starters gun. The video of all the fun can be viewed here

ACCC release: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission will consult on a proposed access arrangement for the transmission service necessary for digital radio services, which are due to begin in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney no later than 1 July 2009.

ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel said "As the radio industry begins its move to digital, it is important that all broadcasters can access the digital radio transmission service on fair and reasonable terms. This requirement will lead to the best outcome for consumers in terms of the range and quality of these services."

The ACCC will consult on an access undertaking that will determine the terms and conditions on which the multiplex transmission licensees will provide the service to radio broadcasters. The licensees will be responsible for multiplexing together the separate streams of content from individual broadcasters and transmitting a combined stream to end users in each licence area.

Under the legislation the Australian Communications and Media Authority is required to allocate eight digital radio multiplex licences to joint venture companies for the provision of services to commercial and community broadcasters. Each multiplex licensee must provide the ACCC with an undertaking specifying the terms and conditions on which it will provide access to broadcasters. It is only after the undertaking has been accepted by the ACCC that ACMA can determine that digital radio services may begin in that area.

The eight multiplex licensees submitted their access undertakings to the ACCC on 3 October 2008, and they were considered against the decision-making criteria setout in the Digital Radio Multiplex Transmitter Licences (Decision-Making Criteria) Determination 2008. After extensive consultation however, the ACCC has concluded that the submitted undertakings did not fully meet the requirements.

"The ACCC acknowledges the time and effort that Commercial Radio Australia has put into developing the undertakings on behalf of the multiplex licensees, and that it has been willing to suggest changes to the submitted undertakings to address some of the ACCC's concerns," Mr Samuel said.

The undertaking proposed by the ACCC is based heavily on those previously submitted by the multiplex licensees. An important element of the undertaking is that it provides fair and reasonable terms to all access seekers, including the many community broadcasters that play an important role in the quality and diversity of radio broadcasting.

"The proposed undertaking also adopts a number of the recommendations made by the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia," Mr Samuel said."It is very important that community broadcasters have access to this service. However, the access regime cannot in itself address all the issues associated with the capacity of community broadcasters to participate in digital radio services. In particular, the ACCC has concluded that the access arrangements should not

allow broadcasters to 'opt out' of any back-up transmission sites; orset the terms and conditions upon which any electronic program guide (EPG) services are provided."

Now you really can access the ABC anytime, anywhere, with the launch of the ABC’s mobile site. Bringing you news, sport, weather, TV guides, movie times, triple j and the best of the ABC Shop. More info here

Source of entire article The Australian: Racing identity Darren Tyquin has died in a car crash in New Zealand. Tyquin, 41, was just 15 when he began his race calling career in 1982 at greyhound and harness meetings under the guidance of racing managers for Victorian radio station 3UZ.

For the teenager who grew up near the Sandown greyhound and horseracing tracks, the job was a dream career. He quickly became an on-air identity, winning the Pater Award for best new talent in Australian Radio in 1983.He also worked as a racecaller in Tasmania for TVT6. It's understood Tyquin died when his car left a highway about 12.50am this morning (10.50 pm last night AEDT) in Christchurch, in New Zealand's South Island. He had been living in New Zealand since 1999.Longtime friend and fellow race caller Paul Langham from Radio Sport 927 said Tyquin would be missed."He was a real character. He loved his racing and enjoyed his visits back to Melbourne," Langham said.

The 3MMM AFL coverage team have launched the new season with a brand new theme song and the guys are handling the vocals. Unlike Labor minister Peter Garrett who was advised to give up his day job after last weekends Sound Relief concert these guys might be waiting for a record deal! Have a listen and you be the judge

The chief executive of a Canberra charity is suing the owners of 2CC over comments made about her involvement in the sale of the Narrabundah Longstay Caravan Park in 2006.

Margaret Spalding is claiming damages for comments made by 2CC presenter Mike Jeffreys on his program in May 2006. Ms Spalding is the chief executive of Koomarri, which sold the caravan park to private interests.

The ACT Supreme Court was played a recording of an interview between Ms Spalding and Mr Jeffreys in March, in which she says she assumes the site will remain as a caravan park.

Parts of that interview were replayed in a May broadcast, in reaction to news that residents had been told they would be evicted by the new owners.It is alleged Mr Jeffreys' broadcast implied that Ms Spalding lied, deliberately misled park residents and behaved deplorably. The hearing continues.

Pirate radio station Radio Caroline is the subject of a soon to be released full feature movie, The boat that rocked.The Boat That Rocked is written and directed by Richard Curtis (Four Weddings and A Funeral, Notting Hill, Love Actually) and also stars Rhys Ifans, Kenneth Branagh, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jack Davenport, Nick Frost, and Emma Thompson. It is inspired by the Radio Caroline story and parts of the studio on the radio ship Ross Revenge were used to re-create the pirate ship. Ex-Caroline man Johnnie Walker acted as adviser during filmingRadio Caroline, a pirate radio station, commenced transmission on Easter Sunday 1964 from a ship anchored in international waters off the coast of Felixstowe, Suffolk, England. The movie will be released on April 9th. Wiki

Over the last week word had been spreading that The Spoonman AKA Brian Carlton was set to return to Triple M airwaves in April. The emails, the wikipedia article, and the photo all pointed to what looked like a potential return. We did our own investigation into whether The Spoonman was heading back to the M's and we can now confirm that this rumour has no legs, put simply it is not going to happen. We can however reveal that Brian is working behind the scenes with the 2MMM breakfast program.

The Sunday Telegraph reports that 2DAYfm breakfast duo Kyle and Jackie O may soon both be broadcasting their program from opposite ends of the globe.Jakie O is keen for a tree change, moving to her country retreat while Kyle Sandilands will be jetsetting across Europe and LA. Could this be a dangerous move and will it lead to the duo taking their grip off the pulse of those things that matter to the demographic that listen to them? Telegraph article here

Peter Brennan relinquished his PD role at 2GB yesterday after being made redundant. Ian Holland, PD of sister station 2CH, will now oversee programming for both 2GB and 2CH. Could the Brennan dynasty now move camps back to 2UE? Stranger things have happened!

Melbourne's FOX fm breached the Commercial Radio Australia Codes of Practice 2004 by broadcasting the words of an identifiable person without that person’s consent.

The ACMA received a complaint in relation to the broadcast of a segment of the program The Matt and Jo Show broadcast by Melbourne FOX fm on 22 April 2008. The complainant alleged that a conversation between her and her boyfriend, which she believed to be private, was recorded and that this conversation was broadcast by FOX fm the following day without her consent. Related ACMA article

Australia's richest person is a former U.S school teacher living on a farm in Scone NSW. Blair Parry-Okeden is the great granddaughter of Cox Enterprises founder James Cox, a former school teacher and newspaper reporter, who borrowed $26,000.00 to purchase the Dayton Evening (now Daily) News newspaper in 1898. Cox Enterprises entered radio in 1934, 75 years ago, when they established their first radio station WHIO in Miami Valley (OH).Cox Enterprises now own 15 newspapers, 17 television stations and 86 radio stations scattered across the American markets.Ms Parry-Okeden migrated to Australia when she married into a NSW farming family about 30 years ago although she has since divorced. After the death of her mother in 2007 she inherited a fortune worth more than $9 billion and her net wealth is currently around $7 billion. COX RADIO

The Australian Communications Media Authority has found that Central Victorian Community Broadcasters Inc., the licensee of the temporary community radio service Phoenix FM Bendigo, breached a condition of its licence by broadcasting an advertisement. Community broadcasters are prohibited from broadcasting advertisements under the Broadcasting Services Act 1992 (the BSA).

Following a complaint, ACMA commenced an investigation and found that the licensee of Phoenix FM breached its licence conditions by broadcasting an advertisement on 5 November 2008.

The advertisement occurred during a live interview with a local business person. The interview was found to be an advertisement because the discussion promoted the business and its products. The business was a sponsor of Phoenix FM but was not identified as such throughout the interview.

In response to ACMA’s investigation, Phoenix FM has taken a number of measures to ensure that similar breaches do not occur in the future. These measures include specific training on sponsorship and advertising for all presenters, implementation of a process for managerial approval of live interviews and training for all volunteers on the licensee’s legislative obligations.

ACMA considers Phoenix FM’s response to the compliance issues raised by this investigation appropriate and has decided to take no further action at this time. In coming to this view, ACMA took into account the fact that a previous breach of this condition in 2008 was of a technical nature, being caused by equipment failure (see ACMA investigation report no. 2046).

The licensee of Phoenix FM, Central Victorian Community Broadcasters Inc., holds a temporary community broadcasting licence to serve the Bendigo RA2 licence area.

After school detention has never been so good for the students of Mortlake Public and Burwood Girls High.

Thanks to radio station 2RDJ, students from the Inner West are getting the opportunity to “spin the decks” and present their very own radio program, conveniently called “After school detention”.

Originally called “School Of The Month” the community radio program started in 2007, with four students from PLC Croydon as presenters, but has since grown to a planned 20 episodes this year. Read the entire article

With figures released by the AFL today there is some impressive growth in revenue, membership and participation during 2008. Naturally we wanted to find out how AFL coverage served our airwaves. An average of 1.3 million people tuned in to live matches on radio in the five mainland capital cities each week, an increase of five per cent. Related article

Super band Coldplay were in Brisbane on Monday night and the Gold Coast's SEA FM crew of Paul, Moyra and Baggsy were lucky (or respected) enough to be the only Queensland radio station to interview them backstage.

"We were there for the sound check and (lead singer) Chris Martin and Guy Berryman are the most down to earth people you could wish to meet," said Paul. Full article

CRA: Government, Opposition and Independent MPs and senators today attended a briefing on the rollout of metropolitan digital radio in Canberra with the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, CEOs of Australian commercial radio networks and senior ABC and SBS executives.

Hosted by radio presenters, Tony Squires and Mikey Robins, the event featured a display of digital radio receivers, plus an overview of the technology; benefits for listeners and planning for the regional rollout of digital radio.

Retailers and the commercial radio industry agreed last week on a start date of early April for a three phase digital radio advertising campaign on all commercial radio stations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth to let listeners know that digital radio is on the way and that, from May, digital radio receivers could be purchased from major retailers in metropolitan areas.Speaking at today’s event, Senator Conroy, Minister for Broadband, Communication and the Digital Economy, said: “The Government is looking forward to the successful switch on of digital radio services in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth and will liaise with the industry on planning for regional digital services.”

Also speaking at the event, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner said digital radio would provide opportunities for a range of new and additional features to listeners. “With DAB+ enabling additional audio streams plus the use of text, graphics and animation as well as features such as pause and rewind, digital radio will offer exciting enhancements to radio listeners,” Ms Warner said.

She said the switch on of digital radio across the five capital cities was the first step in the conversion of all radio broadcasters across the country to digital radio technology. While metropolitan listeners would be the first to benefit from digital radio technology, the next step was to start planning for the rollout of digital services to regional Australia.

“The industry is committed to ensuring all Australians are able to access this enhanced form of free to air radio broadcasting via digital technology and the first step is ensuring that spectrum is made available across Australia for this purpose. Radio broadcasters want to ensure that allocation of appropriate spectrum is a high priority for the Federal Government and that the allocation of spectrum for digital radio will take precedence over reallocation or sale of spectrum for new services such as wireless internet or mobile telephony and other uses,” said Ms Warner.

Commercial Radio Australia regional members were sent an expression of interest for a regional DAB+ trial at the end of last year. Expressions of interest in the regional trial have come from Bathurst Broadcasters (2BS, Brock FM), Macquarie Southern Cross Broadcasters, Supernetwork, Flow FM, Coastal Broadcasters, Austereo and ARN (Canberra FM), West Coast Radio Pty Ltd (1116 6mm, 97.3 Cost FM) North East Broadcaster Ltd, Rich Rivers Radio and Tab Corp – 2KY. Commercial Radio Australia is awaiting confirmation from the Australian Media and Communication Authority (ACMA) on where suitable spectrum is available for a trial – with two possible areas of interest being Hobart or Townsville.

Australia’s new home of sport on-line Sport 24/7 has signed popular fishing identity Dave Butfield to host a Saturday morning fishing show.Butfield is best known to audiences as the host of “Hooked with Dave Butfield” which can be seen on Foxtel, Austar and DVD.Sport 24/7 General Manager Joel Helmes says getting Butfield involved in the new venture is very exciting.“If you look at who we have involved already, I’m sure you will agree we are well and truly on our way to being a force to be reckoned with in the Australian sporting media” he says. More

IT'S been more than 20 years since Radio Uranus popped up on receivers around Melbourne. And almost 40 since Radio Draft Resistance broadcast from Melbourne University. They were small-time enterprises, Radio Draft Resistance surviving under various names for some years. According to some websites, Radio Uranus's last broadcast ended with the on-air raid on their unlicensed transmitter. Read the entire article

Seems the controversy surrounding Ken "KG" Cunningham and FIVEaa just refuses to go away. An anonymous email sent to Adelaide's Sunday Mail this week attacked KG's new internet show, KG and the General, alleging the show is not allowed to speak to anyone from an AFL club. Full article here

John Singleton has declared competitor Fairfax Media "dead" after 2GB's latest radio win. Singo was speaking of how 2GB's sister station 2CH had tied with 2UE for fifth place in the ratings. 2CH is an easy listening station where 82 year old radio legend Bob Rogers presents mornings Monday to Friday.Quick with the quip while singing the praise of Bob Rogers Singo took aim at the Fairfax owned 2UE: [i] 2UE's decline was "predictable," Singleton said, praising 2CH veteran Bob Rogers. In a play on the motto of UE's last ratings winner John Laws, Singo joked: "F. . . the dream, I'm keeping Bob Rogers alive.""2UE is dead. The Sydney Morning Herald is dead. Fairfax is dead. It's just no one's realised."[/i]

Why did this chicken cross the road to get to 4AK? The age-old riddle has got radio station staff beat - they just want the chicken to run. The snow white chook mysteriously appeared in the courtyard of the station about two weeks ago. Full story here

Well survey one is in and around the nation there are mixed results for survey one. Talk in most markets has scored well in this first survey for 2009. Fiveaa, 2GB, 3AW and ABC local radio have all delivered strong figires. Triple J Perth has rated well as has Brisbane's Nova moving further in front of competitor B105. Jamie Dunn has failed to set 4BC breakfast on fire and no doubt has a huge job ahead of him.

Greg Henricks has lost his battle with cancer of the esophagus. Greg was diagnosed with cancer last October and sadly passed away on the Gold Coast last night.The radio news supremo had a career that spanned over 35 years in the industry and worked at many stations including 2CH, 2GB, WSFM, SEA FM and GOLD FM 92.5 amongst others.We recieved this touching email this morning via our inbox[i]Hi all,It is with great sadness that we let you know that this evening Hendo has gone to the big radio station in the sky. He passed away peacefully with family by his side. We would like to thank everyone of you for your wishes, thoughts and support during his illness. Stayed tuned for details of a funeral – all we know is the dress code – bright polos and hawaiian shirts!Thanks again Lots of love Sue & Blake [/i]

Green Guide: BILLY Pinnell may rank high among Australia's most knowledgeable and enthusiastic music broadcasters. But you won't hear him blowing his own trumpet. He plays down his achievements in 50 years in radio.

"You can't take what we do too seriously," he says. "We're not changing people's lives. We're not inventing a bionic ear or curing glaucoma."

The way he sees it, he's just a conduit. "I'm just in a position where I can hear music I believe has got appeal and get it to people," he says. Read the entire Green Guide article

The Australian Communications and Media Authority is proposing to make a new FM frequency available to 6PR Perth to improve reception of its service in the areas of Carabooda and Rockingham within the Perth licence area.

The proposal is one of a number of proposed changes to the technical specifications of Perth radio services contained in a draft variation to the Perth radio licence area plan released today.

‘ACMA’s proposed variation follows consideration of the requests from licensees for improvement of facilities and the reception of services in the Perth area,’ said Chris Chapman, ACMA Chairman.

The change for 6PR involves making a new FM frequency available for two translators. It is proposed that the FM translator services will serve as infill where current AM coverage is lacking. The proposed change is intended to provide access to better reception for listeners in the southern and northern urban outskirts of the licence area.

Other proposals include

the relocation of transmitter site for community radio station 6NMEupdating the site information for commercial radio station 6PERa change to antenna height for community radio stations 6SON and 6RTRa change to the polarisation of commercial radio station 6IX translator service.

Nova 100 today announced that Ben Cousins, one of the AFL’s most high profile players, will join Hughesy and Kate on Monday mornings as football expert for the 2009 AFL season. Ben will recap the weekend’s matches; discuss any topical issues that arise during these games or in training and talk about life in Melbourne.Ben Cousins coming to Nova has got me as excited as Chris Judd going to Carlton and that’s saying something!” says Hughesy. Kate says, “I’ll have to remind myself there is a law about kissing cousins.

Hughesy and Kate have called on the expertise of some of the most respected football players in the past, including Western Bulldogs’ Jason Akermanis, returning to Friday mornings; recently retired Hawthorn legend Shane Crawford; and former Collingwood and Melbourne Captains Nathan Buckley and Garry Lyon. “It’s great to be joining Hughesy and Kate in the morning on Nova 100 and getting back to talking footy!” says Ben.

Ben was drafted by the Richmond Tigers in December 2008 and his return to the football field for the first time in 18 months has been one of the most highly anticipated in AFL history. Last Thursday (February 26), Ben did not fail to disappoint with 21 possessions in his first game, the Richmond-Collingwood NABQuarter Final clash at the Telstra Dome.

The Gadget Guy, Peter Blasina, generally tells it as it is and the following gives us a further insight into the rollout of Digital radio: The scheduled launch of digital radio in Australia is to be delayed due to a lack of readiness by public broadcasters ABC and SBS, with the official commencement of regular digital programming and services in metropolitan areas now scheduled for 6 August.While some commercial broadcasters will commence regular digital programming in metropolitan areas from 15 May, the August date represents the second setback for digital radio, which was first scheduled for official launch in October 2008 and then again on 1 May 2009. Read the entire item

CRA press release: Commercial Radio Australia has announced an extra two week call for entries, starting today, for any radio ad made at any time in the 2009 Siren Awards yearly cycle, to be considered for the main gongs in the 2009 Siren Awards. The Siren Final Call will allow agencies and radio stations to submit work previously not entered, or re-enter work that had not been recognised in the quarterly rounds.

Ads will be judged by a panel of experts and those chosen to be finalists will join winners and highly commended from each of the five rounds of Sirens already completed. All of these finalists will then be judged by the Siren Creative Council, a group of Australia’s leading creative directors and producers, with a winner from the three categories: campaign, single and craft then announced along with an overall winner: the Gold Siren. The winner will be announced in Sydney in early May.

The overall Gold Siren winner for 2009 will be automatically entered into this year’s Cannes Advertising Festival with the winning writers receiving a free trip to Cannes. This year’s Australian radio judge at Cannes Radio Lions, is Paul Reardon from Clemenger BBDO and twice a former winner of a Gold Siren Award.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner said the additional entry time for Sirens 2009 was to ensure advertising agencies, stations and studios throughout Australia had sufficient opportunity to participate in the national awards.“This is the final opportunity for people to be part of this year’s Siren Awards and entry is free – so it is well worth the effort,” Ms Warner said.“Also given the global economic crisis and tough times, it is a great opportunity to get to Cannes given the winner gets to go free,” Ms Warner said.The national Siren Awards, now in their sixth year, are run by Commercial Radio Australia and are designed to recognise the best radio advertising in the country. The awards promote the importance of creativity as a way to make radio advertising more effective.

Winners of the 2009 Siren Awards will be announced in Sydney early in May and the awards ceremony will coincide with a Masterclass, including some great information and speakers talking about making world-class radio ads.

3MP's John Burgess and 3SR's Greg Evans have both spoken out over the lack of quiz shows on television in this day and age. They were joined by TV and radio personality Mike Goldman and Miss Universe Australia 2008 Laura Dundovic for the launch of a new Playstation trivia game in Sydney today. All played the game, with former Perfect Match host Evans taking it out. Full story

April Fool fun has come and gone for another year and across the nation all sorts of pranks took place. Our own prank for 2009 fielded an email from New Zealand requesting an interview even before dawn had broken.

GRUBBY & DEE DEE were caught in the middle of an April Fools Prank, with a number of cars parked in GOLD 104's Richmond street wrapped up in Glad Wrap overnight. There were some strange notes left on them too. Click here for more pics

Sea FM caught thousands of Gold Coasters off guard this morning, broadcasting that motorists would be slugged with a $2.50 toll from April 1 for using the Tugun bypass. It was a well-played April Fools' Day prank, with fellow conspirators including Queensland Premier Anna Bligh and Gold Coast Mayor Ron Clarke. More

Adelaide's Triple M breakfast team Kym, Ali & Dzelde had a scandal on their hands of large proportions. Ali's former boyfriend had attempted to sell nude photos of her however the team were set to reveal all. View pics here and listen to the audio here

At Vega 95.3 breakfast, Mikey and Tony set up Dragon's Todd Hunter to ring in and request Rebecca to sing back up vocals this Saturday night when Dragon perform live. Well the prank back fired on the boys Listen to the audio grab here

3NE's newsreader Tony Tynan told listeners that the border of Victoria and New South Wales was to be realigned to the Murrumbidgee River from the Murray after the original plans were discovered.

Melbourne's Student Youth Network radio station SYN FM announced on their website this morning that they were to rename their station ``Female Youth Network'', or FYN FM, in a hope to gain additional funding.

Three Australian talk radio stations will shortly start trials for DIGITALK radio. 2GB, 3AW and Fiveaa will allow listeners to interact and join in live to air whenever the listener feels like it. If a listener feels they know better or they don't agree with the announcer they can add their point of view. Put simply for those who are passionate about their talk radio there will be no more need to jump on the phone and wait on hold.

DIGITALK was launched last month in Mexico and was an instant hit. Initial fears of masses of people talking over the announcer were soon forgotten as listeners forged their own conversations on the 3,000 channel digital sets.

A high rating station may have up to 8 versions of breakfast going at once as listeners can be bumped from the main program and fed through to the stations other channels. Such was the case in Mexico where morning talk presenter Pablo Cruze quickly adapted with listeners talking over him at random, Cruze will be in Australia during the trials.

To join in the DIGITALK trials listeners will need to purchase a GABFD 3000 channel digital radio and a german made OLFO RIPAL headset. Wearing the headset within 6 metres of the digital radio will allow you to instantly become part of the program by adding your point of view live to air. This will allow you to jump right into the conversation.

Friends of the ABC welcomes the appointment of Julianne Schultz and Michael Lynch.

"It's an extremely welcome change to have people with strong backgrounds in local culture and a commitment to public broadcasting appointed to the ABC Board," said Glenys Stradijot, a spokesperson for Friends of the ABC (Vic).

"Though Friends of the ABC support will remain qualified until we know more about the type of ABC the new appointees will work towards.

"FABC encourages the new board members to become more open than the existing board - to inform and engage with the community about the ABC they envisage.

"Matters that go to the nature of the ABC that Friends is keen to learn their views on, include:

- The significance of the public broadcaster as a producer of local content. The ABC now produces no television drama of its own, depending entirely on external production. Specialist program units, like the ABC's Natural History Unit, have been closed.

- The ABC's increasing engagement in commercial activities which result in advertising on the ABC, risk impacting on programming integrity and may undermine the universality of the ABC by introducing charges for services that should be free.

“The process for these appointments has been a positive start for the Rudd Labor Government with regard to the ABC.

“FABC looks forward to the Government implementing its promise to restore the staff-elected director position to the ABC Board and enshrine in legislation a system that requires all governments to appoint ABC Board members on the basis of merit and independence,” said Glenys Stradijot.

The Australian reports of major happenings around Macquarie GroupThe Macquarie Group's boom-market business model began to unwind yesterday when its listed communications fund recommended a $1.37 billion takeover offer on fears its looming debt deadlines would not be met.

The potential sale of the Macquarie Communications Infrastructure Group (MCG) to the Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board represents the first of the Macquarie satellite funds to break away as the global financial crisis forces the group to reposition its business. Read the entire article

ABC891 have knocked Fiveaa into equal 2nd place with SAFM while in Melbourne the big upset of the survey sees 3AW fall into 2nd spot after ABC774 went to number one. FOX comes in at number 3 in Melbourne, Vega 91.5 continues to struggle however it is a different story for for Vega 95.3 in Sydney with a small gain towards a 4.7 share. 2MMM has parked itself in struggle street. Clear winner in the Sydney market was 2GB. Brisbane's top three remained the same Nova, B105 and ABC612. Perth results show Mix94.5 number 1, sister station 92.9 number 2 and back up amongst them, 96fm in at number 3.

Nova's James Mathison has quit as co-host of Australian Idol Network Ten says it's confident Andrew G can host Australian Idol on his own after co-host James Mathison quit.

Mathison, 31, hinted he was sick of the lifestyle as he revealed he'd leave the singing competition he's hosted since its first series in 2003. Network Ten said it was sad to see him go, but Andrew G was up to the task of carrying the hosting job alone.

Nova 969 said Mathison had no plans to give up his job hosting late night music program Launchpad Up Late with Patience Hodgson from The Grates.

"James is having a ball on Nova, and we're happy to give him the opportunity," Nova 969 program director Adam Williscroft said.

CRA release: Commercial Radio Australia and The Nielsen Company today announced that quota sampling of the P10 – 17 and P18 – 24 age groups would be tested from April 2009 (Wave 3) as part of the fine tuning of the implementation of the new enhanced survey methodology in metropolitan areas.

This action is being taken following concerns expressed by the industry about the sample sizes and the demographic profile of the total sample in Survey 1 and Survey 2 with particular reference to the age groups of 10-17 and 18-24 years.

In order to address this issue, CRA and Nielsen agreed that quota sampling for the P10-17 and P18-24 age groups would be tested in all markets for Survey 3 and 4 to deal with the under sampling that occurred in the first two surveys.

Peter Cornelius, Managing Director, Media of Nielsen said, “Quota sampling during recruitment will significantly improve the number of under 25 people participating in the radio surveys which will result in higher sample sizes in these demographics. This issue needs to be addressed to ensure a more representative sample in all markets and in all surveys”.

This week at the Southport Yacht Club, Radio Station Sea FM celebrated 20 years almost to the minute of broadcasting. With the Beatles hit tune beginning 'It was 20 years ago today' blaring in the background as the theme for the night, it was on with the party. Read the entire article

Easymix 1071am Central Victoria and sister station 1467am Mildura have recently launched their own distinct websites. Easymix is part of the Grant Broadcasters radio network and both stations have come a long way since Grant's took ownership a few years ago. Check out the sites here 1071am Central Victoria1467am Mildura

Archival video of John Vincent AKA Ken Noath just fooling around on Sounds Unlimited in 1979

John Vincent passed away in his sleep this morning with his family by his side. Concerns for his health were raised when he was admitted to Royal Adelaide Hospital late last week. John was 67.

Tributes are flowing in across the industry such as the following from 5MMM's website 'Today we mourn the passing of John Vincent who died after a long illness. John was at the forefront of the FM radio revolution in the 1980s and became a household name on Adelaide radio.

He was the 'ring master' leading a group of personalities in The SA-FM Morning Zoo which had the highest breakfast ratings achieved to date - 36.6% in 1989.

ABC: The ABC has appointed the head of its Asia Pacific News service, Kate Torney, as the new director of the news division.

Ms Torney is the first woman to take on the role.

ABC managing director Mark Scott has also announced that Kate Dundas has been appointed the new director of radio.

Ms Torney takes over the director of news position from John Cameron and Ms Dundas slots into the position vacated by Sue Howard; Ms Dundas has been acting in the position in recent months.

Mr Scott says both have extensive experience in news and radio and a deep understanding of the ABC and will make them great contributions to the ABC leadership team.

"Kate Torney's experience managing the largest cross-platform international newsroom in the Asia Pacific region, responsible for over 60 journalists, together with her strong background in current affairs as the executive producer of Insiders and Offsiders, made her the ideal candidate to extend the opportunities offered by digital media into our ABC newsrooms," Mr Scott said.

Ms Torney says it is a great honour to be taking up the role.

"This is a time of change and opportunity for ABC News and it is also a time to focus on what sets us apart from our competitors. A commitment to journalistic excellence and independent reporting and analysis of local, national and international news must remain our priority as we explore new ways to deliver our content," she said.

She praised John Cameron for his efforts and says she is proud to be following in his footsteps.

"I look forward to continuing to work closely with the news executive team of John Turner, Craig McMurtrie, Alan Sunderland, Zahed Cachalia, Steven Alward and Lou Lander."

Mr Scott says Ms Dundas is an ideal choice for director of radio.

"She brings a depth of experience in the area of strategic reform and a solid knowledge of content creation and editorial policies in her previous role working with the ABC's national radio networks, making her an outstanding candidate for this position.

"The ABC is currently in a strong position and we want to maintain that leadership in digital media, capitalising on our strengths in the key content areas of news and radio - the work of the directors of news and radio will be integral in this endeavour."

Ms Torney will begin her role as the director of news on April 14 and Ms Dundas will begin her role as director of radio immediately.

This year’s Gold Siren Winner, equivalent to the best radio ad in Australia, will be announced in Sydney on May 8, at Waters Edge, Walsh Bay. The winner of the 2009 Siren Awards for creative excellence in radio advertising will be announced at a breakfast, hosted by Jonathan ‘Jono’ Coleman and Ian ‘Dano’ Rogerson, from the drivetime show, “The Jono & Dano Show", on-air on WS-FM (Sydney), GOLD 104 (Melbourne) and 4KQ (Brisbane), as well as many regional stations across Australia.

The breakfast will feature the best radio ads of the past twelve months. The 2009 winner, chosen by a panel of industry experts, will be automatically entered into the Cannes Radio Lions – to be held in June and its writer will also win two tickets to attend the festival.

Last year’s Gold Siren winner, an advertisement for RACV Financial Services called “Disclaimer”, written by Paul Reardon and Julian Schreiber from Clemenger BBDO in Melbourne, won a Silver Radio Lion at the Cannes Advertising Festival. The RACV ad was one of three 2008 Sirens finalists and winners that made it to the radio shortlist in Cannes last year. Paul Reardon from Clemenger BBDO is this year’s Australian radio judge at Cannes.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner said the Siren Awards provided a great opportunity to recognise excellence in Australian radio advertising and also highlight the great work being achieved, both at home and overseas: “Each year the Siren Awards continue to raise the bar in terms of creativity and originality. There have been nearly 600 entries this year – a fantastic result which shows how important this Award has become. Also the success of past winners and entrants at Cannes is testament to the fact that great work is being achieved with radio ads in Australia,” Ms Warner said.

The breakfast will be followed by the Sirens Masterclass, a one-day, creative seminar that provides keynote speakers and interactive sessions. The Masterclass includes lunch and group tasks which will allow people to share ideas and network. Guest speakers for this year’s event will be announced soon.

Both the Sirens breakfast and Masterclass will be held at Waters Edge, Sydney. The breakfast will run from 7.30am to 9.30am and the Masterclass will follow the breakfast and includes lunch. Tickets are on sale now at $395 for the breakfast and Masterclass combined and an early bird discounted rate of $350 is available for those who book and pay before Friday, April 10. Tickets for the breakfast only are $65 and a table of ten is available for $595. For a booking form and more information visit the Sirens website, www.sirenawards.com.au.

The national Siren Awards, now in their sixth year, are run by Commercial Radio Australia and are designed to recognise the best radio advertising in the country. The awards promote the importance of creativity as a way to make radio advertising more effective. Entries for round one of the 2010 Siren Awards are now open.

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ACMA RELEASE: The Australian Communications and Media Authority invites public comment on a proposed change of community interest for community broadcaster Hobart FM Inc., the licensee of 7THE.

7THE has advised ACMA that it has identified changes in the needs and interests of the community it serves and considers that it would best serve the general community of Hobart RA2 rather than the educational community.

ACMA is currently considering 7THE’s application to change its community of interest.

Community broadcasting licensees are subject to a licence condition that the licensee will continue to represent the community interest that it represented at the time when the licence was allocated or was last renewed. Community broadcasting licensees can apply to change their community interest at the time they submit their licence renewal application.

7THE’s licence renewal application and request for a change of community interest are available from ACMA’s website.

Margaret Spalding, CEO of disability service provider Koomarri, has died.Margaret Spalding had last week begun a civil hearing against Canberra's 2CC over remarks made by the breakfast presenter about her role in the sale of the Narrabundah Long Stay Caravan Park in 2006.

Joy 94.9’s musical director Damian Nicholas has resigned from the station. Nicholas who has also been a long time host of the drive program will now concentrate on voice-overs both for radio and television.

Regional commercial radio broadcasters from around Australia met in Sydney today and agreed unanimously that digital radio services must be made available to all Australians, not just those in metropolitan areas.

The broadcasters called on the Federal Government to make an immediate public commitment to the allocation of VHF Band III spectrum to regional broadcasters for the rollout of digital radio services across Australia.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia (CRA), Joan Warner said, “The broadcasters agreed that the provision of digital radio services across the whole of Australia is key to the principle of social inclusion for all Australians. A vital element in ensuring the planning and provision of digital radio services in a timely manner is an assurance from Government of access to spectrum. “

“Regional broadcasters believe there is no impediment to the Government immediately making a strong policy commitment to regional commercial radio operators and their listeners that appropriate spectrum will be allocated in the future to regional broadcasters for digital radio services,” she said

Discussion at the meeting focused on spectrum needs and policy essentials, plus planning, timing and funding proposals for further development and presentation to the Federal Government that will ensure equity of access for all Australians to new and improved radio services via digital radio.

Regional broadcasters also discussed digital radio trials with, ideally, trials to begin in September 2009 following the digital radio switch on in the mainland capitals.

Expressions of interest in a regional DAB+ trial have been made to CRA by a large number of commercial radio broadcasters including Bathurst Broadcasters, Macquarie Southern Cross Broadcasters, Prime Radio, Hot Tomato, Supernetwork, Flow FM, Coastal Broadcasters, Austereo/ARN (Canberra FM), West Coast Radio Pty Ltd, North East Broadcaster Ltd Rich Rivers Radio and Tab Corp – 2KY.

Commercial Radio Australia has already had advice from ACMA on where suitable spectrum is available for a trial. Current areas of investigation are Hobart, Townsville and Canberra. Broadcasters also discussed the possibility of a trial in a smaller regional area.

“An announcement of future spectrum priority plus facilitation of a regional DAB+ trial will provide regional broadcasters and regional listeners, plus the automotive and retail sectors, with confidence that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the radio industry, is committed to making digital radio available throughout Australia,” said Ms Warner

THE launch of “rock music” radio station Zinc's brand yesterday, and the shift of 4MKFM onto the AM band with a news and talkback format will mark Prime Radio's biggest attack on the Macquarie-owned Hot FM and Sea FM.Zinc will take over the 101.9FM spot that was long-held by 4MKFM. Read the entire article

"A trading halt is necessary as Prime expects to make an announcement in relation to capital management initiatives," the company said in a statement on Monday.

Prime requested that the trading halt continue until the opening of trade on Friday, unless it requests the halt be lifted before that time.

The Canberra-based company, which commenced as a free-to-air television broadcaster before diversifying into radio and digital media, sources its revenues from advertising and the production of commercial ads.

THE laughs keep coming for Triple J radio show host Alex Dyson who is set to make a splash at this year's Melbourne International Comedy Festival.n Dyson, 20, is juggling his final year of university, his weekend breakfast radio show with fellow Warrnambool comedian Tom Ballard and preparing for the comedy festival. Read the entire article

Radio companies say they are beating the worst of the advertising downturn as they prepare to launch digital services.Cathy O'Connor, chief executive of DMG Radio, said while advertising growth fell 2.06 per cent in February, it wasn't likely to deteriorate much further over the next six to 12 months. read the entire article

They were in training for months and yesterday they all came together to find out who was South Australia's mightiest Mascot.The Triple M Kym, Ali & Dzelde Mascot Race was all in a good cause for The Queen Elizabeth Research Foundation. Premier Mike Rann was there to count the Mascot's down to the starters gun. The video of all the fun can be viewed here

ACCC release: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission will consult on a proposed access arrangement for the transmission service necessary for digital radio services, which are due to begin in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney no later than 1 July 2009.

ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel said "As the radio industry begins its move to digital, it is important that all broadcasters can access the digital radio transmission service on fair and reasonable terms. This requirement will lead to the best outcome for consumers in terms of the range and quality of these services."

The ACCC will consult on an access undertaking that will determine the terms and conditions on which the multiplex transmission licensees will provide the service to radio broadcasters. The licensees will be responsible for multiplexing together the separate streams of content from individual broadcasters and transmitting a combined stream to end users in each licence area.

Under the legislation the Australian Communications and Media Authority is required to allocate eight digital radio multiplex licences to joint venture companies for the provision of services to commercial and community broadcasters. Each multiplex licensee must provide the ACCC with an undertaking specifying the terms and conditions on which it will provide access to broadcasters. It is only after the undertaking has been accepted by the ACCC that ACMA can determine that digital radio services may begin in that area.

The eight multiplex licensees submitted their access undertakings to the ACCC on 3 October 2008, and they were considered against the decision-making criteria setout in the Digital Radio Multiplex Transmitter Licences (Decision-Making Criteria) Determination 2008. After extensive consultation however, the ACCC has concluded that the submitted undertakings did not fully meet the requirements.

"The ACCC acknowledges the time and effort that Commercial Radio Australia has put into developing the undertakings on behalf of the multiplex licensees, and that it has been willing to suggest changes to the submitted undertakings to address some of the ACCC's concerns," Mr Samuel said.

The undertaking proposed by the ACCC is based heavily on those previously submitted by the multiplex licensees. An important element of the undertaking is that it provides fair and reasonable terms to all access seekers, including the many community broadcasters that play an important role in the quality and diversity of radio broadcasting.

"The proposed undertaking also adopts a number of the recommendations made by the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia," Mr Samuel said."It is very important that community broadcasters have access to this service. However, the access regime cannot in itself address all the issues associated with the capacity of community broadcasters to participate in digital radio services. In particular, the ACCC has concluded that the access arrangements should not

allow broadcasters to 'opt out' of any back-up transmission sites; orset the terms and conditions upon which any electronic program guide (EPG) services are provided."

Now you really can access the ABC anytime, anywhere, with the launch of the ABC’s mobile site. Bringing you news, sport, weather, TV guides, movie times, triple j and the best of the ABC Shop. More info here

Source of entire article The Australian: Racing identity Darren Tyquin has died in a car crash in New Zealand. Tyquin, 41, was just 15 when he began his race calling career in 1982 at greyhound and harness meetings under the guidance of racing managers for Victorian radio station 3UZ.

For the teenager who grew up near the Sandown greyhound and horseracing tracks, the job was a dream career. He quickly became an on-air identity, winning the Pater Award for best new talent in Australian Radio in 1983.He also worked as a racecaller in Tasmania for TVT6. It's understood Tyquin died when his car left a highway about 12.50am this morning (10.50 pm last night AEDT) in Christchurch, in New Zealand's South Island. He had been living in New Zealand since 1999.Longtime friend and fellow race caller Paul Langham from Radio Sport 927 said Tyquin would be missed."He was a real character. He loved his racing and enjoyed his visits back to Melbourne," Langham said.

The 3MMM AFL coverage team have launched the new season with a brand new theme song and the guys are handling the vocals. Unlike Labor minister Peter Garrett who was advised to give up his day job after last weekends Sound Relief concert these guys might be waiting for a record deal! Have a listen and you be the judge

The chief executive of a Canberra charity is suing the owners of 2CC over comments made about her involvement in the sale of the Narrabundah Longstay Caravan Park in 2006.

Margaret Spalding is claiming damages for comments made by 2CC presenter Mike Jeffreys on his program in May 2006. Ms Spalding is the chief executive of Koomarri, which sold the caravan park to private interests.

The ACT Supreme Court was played a recording of an interview between Ms Spalding and Mr Jeffreys in March, in which she says she assumes the site will remain as a caravan park.

Parts of that interview were replayed in a May broadcast, in reaction to news that residents had been told they would be evicted by the new owners.It is alleged Mr Jeffreys' broadcast implied that Ms Spalding lied, deliberately misled park residents and behaved deplorably. The hearing continues.

Pirate radio station Radio Caroline is the subject of a soon to be released full feature movie, The boat that rocked.The Boat That Rocked is written and directed by Richard Curtis (Four Weddings and A Funeral, Notting Hill, Love Actually) and also stars Rhys Ifans, Kenneth Branagh, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jack Davenport, Nick Frost, and Emma Thompson. It is inspired by the Radio Caroline story and parts of the studio on the radio ship Ross Revenge were used to re-create the pirate ship. Ex-Caroline man Johnnie Walker acted as adviser during filmingRadio Caroline, a pirate radio station, commenced transmission on Easter Sunday 1964 from a ship anchored in international waters off the coast of Felixstowe, Suffolk, England. The movie will be released on April 9th. Wiki

Over the last week word had been spreading that The Spoonman AKA Brian Carlton was set to return to Triple M airwaves in April. The emails, the wikipedia article, and the photo all pointed to what looked like a potential return. We did our own investigation into whether The Spoonman was heading back to the M's and we can now confirm that this rumour has no legs, put simply it is not going to happen. We can however reveal that Brian is working behind the scenes with the 2MMM breakfast program.

The Sunday Telegraph reports that 2DAYfm breakfast duo Kyle and Jackie O may soon both be broadcasting their program from opposite ends of the globe.Jakie O is keen for a tree change, moving to her country retreat while Kyle Sandilands will be jetsetting across Europe and LA. Could this be a dangerous move and will it lead to the duo taking their grip off the pulse of those things that matter to the demographic that listen to them? Telegraph article here

Peter Brennan relinquished his PD role at 2GB yesterday after being made redundant. Ian Holland, PD of sister station 2CH, will now oversee programming for both 2GB and 2CH. Could the Brennan dynasty now move camps back to 2UE? Stranger things have happened!

Melbourne's FOX fm breached the Commercial Radio Australia Codes of Practice 2004 by broadcasting the words of an identifiable person without that person’s consent.

The ACMA received a complaint in relation to the broadcast of a segment of the program The Matt and Jo Show broadcast by Melbourne FOX fm on 22 April 2008. The complainant alleged that a conversation between her and her boyfriend, which she believed to be private, was recorded and that this conversation was broadcast by FOX fm the following day without her consent. Related ACMA article

Australia's richest person is a former U.S school teacher living on a farm in Scone NSW. Blair Parry-Okeden is the great granddaughter of Cox Enterprises founder James Cox, a former school teacher and newspaper reporter, who borrowed $26,000.00 to purchase the Dayton Evening (now Daily) News newspaper in 1898. Cox Enterprises entered radio in 1934, 75 years ago, when they established their first radio station WHIO in Miami Valley (OH).Cox Enterprises now own 15 newspapers, 17 television stations and 86 radio stations scattered across the American markets.Ms Parry-Okeden migrated to Australia when she married into a NSW farming family about 30 years ago although she has since divorced. After the death of her mother in 2007 she inherited a fortune worth more than $9 billion and her net wealth is currently around $7 billion. COX RADIO

The Australian Communications Media Authority has found that Central Victorian Community Broadcasters Inc., the licensee of the temporary community radio service Phoenix FM Bendigo, breached a condition of its licence by broadcasting an advertisement. Community broadcasters are prohibited from broadcasting advertisements under the Broadcasting Services Act 1992 (the BSA).

Following a complaint, ACMA commenced an investigation and found that the licensee of Phoenix FM breached its licence conditions by broadcasting an advertisement on 5 November 2008.

The advertisement occurred during a live interview with a local business person. The interview was found to be an advertisement because the discussion promoted the business and its products. The business was a sponsor of Phoenix FM but was not identified as such throughout the interview.

In response to ACMA’s investigation, Phoenix FM has taken a number of measures to ensure that similar breaches do not occur in the future. These measures include specific training on sponsorship and advertising for all presenters, implementation of a process for managerial approval of live interviews and training for all volunteers on the licensee’s legislative obligations.

ACMA considers Phoenix FM’s response to the compliance issues raised by this investigation appropriate and has decided to take no further action at this time. In coming to this view, ACMA took into account the fact that a previous breach of this condition in 2008 was of a technical nature, being caused by equipment failure (see ACMA investigation report no. 2046).

The licensee of Phoenix FM, Central Victorian Community Broadcasters Inc., holds a temporary community broadcasting licence to serve the Bendigo RA2 licence area.

After school detention has never been so good for the students of Mortlake Public and Burwood Girls High.

Thanks to radio station 2RDJ, students from the Inner West are getting the opportunity to “spin the decks” and present their very own radio program, conveniently called “After school detention”.

Originally called “School Of The Month” the community radio program started in 2007, with four students from PLC Croydon as presenters, but has since grown to a planned 20 episodes this year. Read the entire article

With figures released by the AFL today there is some impressive growth in revenue, membership and participation during 2008. Naturally we wanted to find out how AFL coverage served our airwaves. An average of 1.3 million people tuned in to live matches on radio in the five mainland capital cities each week, an increase of five per cent. Related article

Super band Coldplay were in Brisbane on Monday night and the Gold Coast's SEA FM crew of Paul, Moyra and Baggsy were lucky (or respected) enough to be the only Queensland radio station to interview them backstage.

"We were there for the sound check and (lead singer) Chris Martin and Guy Berryman are the most down to earth people you could wish to meet," said Paul. Full article

CRA: Government, Opposition and Independent MPs and senators today attended a briefing on the rollout of metropolitan digital radio in Canberra with the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, CEOs of Australian commercial radio networks and senior ABC and SBS executives.

Hosted by radio presenters, Tony Squires and Mikey Robins, the event featured a display of digital radio receivers, plus an overview of the technology; benefits for listeners and planning for the regional rollout of digital radio.

Retailers and the commercial radio industry agreed last week on a start date of early April for a three phase digital radio advertising campaign on all commercial radio stations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth to let listeners know that digital radio is on the way and that, from May, digital radio receivers could be purchased from major retailers in metropolitan areas.Speaking at today’s event, Senator Conroy, Minister for Broadband, Communication and the Digital Economy, said: “The Government is looking forward to the successful switch on of digital radio services in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth and will liaise with the industry on planning for regional digital services.”

Also speaking at the event, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner said digital radio would provide opportunities for a range of new and additional features to listeners. “With DAB+ enabling additional audio streams plus the use of text, graphics and animation as well as features such as pause and rewind, digital radio will offer exciting enhancements to radio listeners,” Ms Warner said.

She said the switch on of digital radio across the five capital cities was the first step in the conversion of all radio broadcasters across the country to digital radio technology. While metropolitan listeners would be the first to benefit from digital radio technology, the next step was to start planning for the rollout of digital services to regional Australia.

“The industry is committed to ensuring all Australians are able to access this enhanced form of free to air radio broadcasting via digital technology and the first step is ensuring that spectrum is made available across Australia for this purpose. Radio broadcasters want to ensure that allocation of appropriate spectrum is a high priority for the Federal Government and that the allocation of spectrum for digital radio will take precedence over reallocation or sale of spectrum for new services such as wireless internet or mobile telephony and other uses,” said Ms Warner.

Commercial Radio Australia regional members were sent an expression of interest for a regional DAB+ trial at the end of last year. Expressions of interest in the regional trial have come from Bathurst Broadcasters (2BS, Brock FM), Macquarie Southern Cross Broadcasters, Supernetwork, Flow FM, Coastal Broadcasters, Austereo and ARN (Canberra FM), West Coast Radio Pty Ltd (1116 6mm, 97.3 Cost FM) North East Broadcaster Ltd, Rich Rivers Radio and Tab Corp – 2KY. Commercial Radio Australia is awaiting confirmation from the Australian Media and Communication Authority (ACMA) on where suitable spectrum is available for a trial – with two possible areas of interest being Hobart or Townsville.

Australia’s new home of sport on-line Sport 24/7 has signed popular fishing identity Dave Butfield to host a Saturday morning fishing show.Butfield is best known to audiences as the host of “Hooked with Dave Butfield” which can be seen on Foxtel, Austar and DVD.Sport 24/7 General Manager Joel Helmes says getting Butfield involved in the new venture is very exciting.“If you look at who we have involved already, I’m sure you will agree we are well and truly on our way to being a force to be reckoned with in the Australian sporting media” he says. More

IT'S been more than 20 years since Radio Uranus popped up on receivers around Melbourne. And almost 40 since Radio Draft Resistance broadcast from Melbourne University. They were small-time enterprises, Radio Draft Resistance surviving under various names for some years. According to some websites, Radio Uranus's last broadcast ended with the on-air raid on their unlicensed transmitter. Read the entire article

Seems the controversy surrounding Ken "KG" Cunningham and FIVEaa just refuses to go away. An anonymous email sent to Adelaide's Sunday Mail this week attacked KG's new internet show, KG and the General, alleging the show is not allowed to speak to anyone from an AFL club. Full article here

John Singleton has declared competitor Fairfax Media "dead" after 2GB's latest radio win. Singo was speaking of how 2GB's sister station 2CH had tied with 2UE for fifth place in the ratings. 2CH is an easy listening station where 82 year old radio legend Bob Rogers presents mornings Monday to Friday.Quick with the quip while singing the praise of Bob Rogers Singo took aim at the Fairfax owned 2UE: [i] 2UE's decline was "predictable," Singleton said, praising 2CH veteran Bob Rogers. In a play on the motto of UE's last ratings winner John Laws, Singo joked: "F. . . the dream, I'm keeping Bob Rogers alive.""2UE is dead. The Sydney Morning Herald is dead. Fairfax is dead. It's just no one's realised."[/i]

Why did this chicken cross the road to get to 4AK? The age-old riddle has got radio station staff beat - they just want the chicken to run. The snow white chook mysteriously appeared in the courtyard of the station about two weeks ago. Full story here

Well survey one is in and around the nation there are mixed results for survey one. Talk in most markets has scored well in this first survey for 2009. Fiveaa, 2GB, 3AW and ABC local radio have all delivered strong figires. Triple J Perth has rated well as has Brisbane's Nova moving further in front of competitor B105. Jamie Dunn has failed to set 4BC breakfast on fire and no doubt has a huge job ahead of him.

Greg Henricks has lost his battle with cancer of the esophagus. Greg was diagnosed with cancer last October and sadly passed away on the Gold Coast last night.The radio news supremo had a career that spanned over 35 years in the industry and worked at many stations including 2CH, 2GB, WSFM, SEA FM and GOLD FM 92.5 amongst others.We recieved this touching email this morning via our inbox[i]Hi all,It is with great sadness that we let you know that this evening Hendo has gone to the big radio station in the sky. He passed away peacefully with family by his side. We would like to thank everyone of you for your wishes, thoughts and support during his illness. Stayed tuned for details of a funeral – all we know is the dress code – bright polos and hawaiian shirts!Thanks again Lots of love Sue & Blake [/i]

Green Guide: BILLY Pinnell may rank high among Australia's most knowledgeable and enthusiastic music broadcasters. But you won't hear him blowing his own trumpet. He plays down his achievements in 50 years in radio.

"You can't take what we do too seriously," he says. "We're not changing people's lives. We're not inventing a bionic ear or curing glaucoma."

The way he sees it, he's just a conduit. "I'm just in a position where I can hear music I believe has got appeal and get it to people," he says. Read the entire Green Guide article

The Australian Communications and Media Authority is proposing to make a new FM frequency available to 6PR Perth to improve reception of its service in the areas of Carabooda and Rockingham within the Perth licence area.

The proposal is one of a number of proposed changes to the technical specifications of Perth radio services contained in a draft variation to the Perth radio licence area plan released today.

‘ACMA’s proposed variation follows consideration of the requests from licensees for improvement of facilities and the reception of services in the Perth area,’ said Chris Chapman, ACMA Chairman.

The change for 6PR involves making a new FM frequency available for two translators. It is proposed that the FM translator services will serve as infill where current AM coverage is lacking. The proposed change is intended to provide access to better reception for listeners in the southern and northern urban outskirts of the licence area.

Other proposals include

the relocation of transmitter site for community radio station 6NMEupdating the site information for commercial radio station 6PERa change to antenna height for community radio stations 6SON and 6RTRa change to the polarisation of commercial radio station 6IX translator service.

Nova 100 today announced that Ben Cousins, one of the AFL’s most high profile players, will join Hughesy and Kate on Monday mornings as football expert for the 2009 AFL season. Ben will recap the weekend’s matches; discuss any topical issues that arise during these games or in training and talk about life in Melbourne.Ben Cousins coming to Nova has got me as excited as Chris Judd going to Carlton and that’s saying something!” says Hughesy. Kate says, “I’ll have to remind myself there is a law about kissing cousins.

Hughesy and Kate have called on the expertise of some of the most respected football players in the past, including Western Bulldogs’ Jason Akermanis, returning to Friday mornings; recently retired Hawthorn legend Shane Crawford; and former Collingwood and Melbourne Captains Nathan Buckley and Garry Lyon. “It’s great to be joining Hughesy and Kate in the morning on Nova 100 and getting back to talking footy!” says Ben.

Ben was drafted by the Richmond Tigers in December 2008 and his return to the football field for the first time in 18 months has been one of the most highly anticipated in AFL history. Last Thursday (February 26), Ben did not fail to disappoint with 21 possessions in his first game, the Richmond-Collingwood NABQuarter Final clash at the Telstra Dome.

The Gadget Guy, Peter Blasina, generally tells it as it is and the following gives us a further insight into the rollout of Digital radio: The scheduled launch of digital radio in Australia is to be delayed due to a lack of readiness by public broadcasters ABC and SBS, with the official commencement of regular digital programming and services in metropolitan areas now scheduled for 6 August.While some commercial broadcasters will commence regular digital programming in metropolitan areas from 15 May, the August date represents the second setback for digital radio, which was first scheduled for official launch in October 2008 and then again on 1 May 2009. Read the entire item

CRA press release: Commercial Radio Australia has announced an extra two week call for entries, starting today, for any radio ad made at any time in the 2009 Siren Awards yearly cycle, to be considered for the main gongs in the 2009 Siren Awards. The Siren Final Call will allow agencies and radio stations to submit work previously not entered, or re-enter work that had not been recognised in the quarterly rounds.

Ads will be judged by a panel of experts and those chosen to be finalists will join winners and highly commended from each of the five rounds of Sirens already completed. All of these finalists will then be judged by the Siren Creative Council, a group of Australia’s leading creative directors and producers, with a winner from the three categories: campaign, single and craft then announced along with an overall winner: the Gold Siren. The winner will be announced in Sydney in early May.

The overall Gold Siren winner for 2009 will be automatically entered into this year’s Cannes Advertising Festival with the winning writers receiving a free trip to Cannes. This year’s Australian radio judge at Cannes Radio Lions, is Paul Reardon from Clemenger BBDO and twice a former winner of a Gold Siren Award.

Chief executive officer of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner said the additional entry time for Sirens 2009 was to ensure advertising agencies, stations and studios throughout Australia had sufficient opportunity to participate in the national awards.“This is the final opportunity for people to be part of this year’s Siren Awards and entry is free – so it is well worth the effort,” Ms Warner said.“Also given the global economic crisis and tough times, it is a great opportunity to get to Cannes given the winner gets to go free,” Ms Warner said.The national Siren Awards, now in their sixth year, are run by Commercial Radio Australia and are designed to recognise the best radio advertising in the country. The awards promote the importance of creativity as a way to make radio advertising more effective.

Winners of the 2009 Siren Awards will be announced in Sydney early in May and the awards ceremony will coincide with a Masterclass, including some great information and speakers talking about making world-class radio ads.